Astragaloside IV is a saponin from Astragalus membranaceus that activates telomerase — the enzyme that lengthens telomeres (protective caps on chromosomes that shorten with each cell division). TA-65® is the branded extract marketed as a telomere-lengthening supplement at premium prices ($100-600/month). Our research shows it DOES activate telomerase in vitro and in some human cells, and a 2011 study showed CMV-specific T-cell telomere lengthening. However: (1) the magnitude of telomere effect in vivo is tiny; (2) telomerase activation also promotes cancer cell immortality — the safety implication that is NEVER discussed in marketing; (3) the price-to-evidence ratio is the worst of any supplement we've reviewed.
Astragaloside IV activates the hTERT gene (human telomerase reverse transcriptase) — the catalytic subunit of telomerase. When telomerase is active, it adds TTAGGG repeats to chromosome ends (telomeres), preventing telomere shortening during cell division. Telomere shortening is one mechanism of cellular aging (Hayflick limit), and critically short telomeres trigger cellular senescence or apoptosis. By maintaining telomere length, cells can continue dividing and functioning longer. HOWEVER: this is the exact same mechanism cancer cells use to become immortal — which is why 85-90% of cancers reactivate telomerase.
No pharmacological critical interactions identified.
Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board | Last updated:
Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.